New research from MarketsandMarkets found the global market for phytosterols was estimated at $438.45 million in 2014, and is projected to reach $721.26 million by 2020, growing at a CAGR of 8.7% from 2015 to 2020. According to the report, “Phytosterols Market by Type (Beta-sitosterol, Campesterol, and Stigmasterol), Application (Food Ingredients, Pharmaceuticals, Cosmetics, and Feed) & by Region – Global Trends & Forecast to 2020,” Europe dominated the global market and is expected to be the fastest-growing in the near future due to the health concerns in the region.
 
The enormous health benefits of phytosterols are projected to drive the market globally. Its increasing end-use applications and the growing number of deaths globally from cardiovascular diseases are major driving factors within the market, according to the report. Feed manufacturers and animal nutritionists are focusing on the development of functional animal products (poultry, milk, and meat) enriched with phytosterol, which is important for improving health and meat quality for human consumption.
 
Phytosterols are plant stanols and sterols that are found in the fatty tissues of plants. Humans and animals cannot synthesize phytosterols, which is why they must be supplemented through diet. Phytosterols have a chemical structure similar to cholesterol (except for the addition of one ethyl or methyl group); however, the absorption of phytosterols in humans is much less than cholesterol. Phytosterols are naturally found in all items of plant origin; mainly oils, but also in dried fruits and pulses.
 
MarketsandMarkets reported consumers across the world are becoming more health conscious, and looking for foods with additional benefits such as low cholesterol and reduced disease risks claims. Phytosterol-rich diets help in reducing cholesterol absorption and reduce the risks of heart diseases. Rapid advances in science and technology, increasing health care costs, the aging population, and rising awareness of customers in attaining wellness through diet are the major factors driving the demand for functional food and beverages, as well as ingredients such as phytosterols and carotenoids.
 
The high-growth potential in emerging markets and untapped regions provides new growth opportunities for market players, the report said. Growing customer attention towards superior quality food is a key driver in the growth of this market.